Canine Ataxia: Understanding the Syndrome in Dogs
According to traditional Chinese veterinary medicine, the primary causes of the condition are attributed to weaknesses in the spleen and kidneys, as well as deficiencies in liver blood. The spleen governs the muscles and the limbs, serving as the foundation for postnatal development. When the spleen and stomach are weak, the production of essential nutrients is insufficient, leading to deficiencies in Qi and blood. This results in a lack of nourishment to the limbs and bones, manifesting as weak and painful muscles that hinder movement. The kidneys are responsible for bones and the production of marrow. Kidney weakness can lead to weakness in the lower back, difficulty in rising and lying down. The liver stores blood and governs the tendons. Insufficient liver blood can cause malnourishment of the tendons, leading to slackness in the tendons and vessels, and the inability to properly bind bones and joints, which may result in rigidness of the body, stiffness, or weakness in the limbs.
Primary Symptoms:
Weakness in the lumbar and pelvic area, dragging the hind limbs, difficulty in standing up, and a dragging gait. Initially, weakness is often observed in the hind limbs, which gradually spreads to all four limbs. Symptoms may include muscle paralysis and dry, lackluster skin. As activity increases, the symptoms do not improve.
Treatment:
Medicinal treatment involves using the "Buzhong Yiqi Pill" to tonify the spleen and stomach, boost Qi, and elevate Yang. For Western medicine, Hyoscyamine Bromide (or Neostigmine Mesilate) is used to stimulate smooth muscle. The prescription is as follows: 1mg of Hyoscyamine Bromide (or Neostigmine Mesilate) per injection, administered intramuscularly. For large dogs, 2 injections per day, and for small dogs, 1 injection per day. The Buzhong Yiqi Pill is taken orally, with 1/4 of a pill for small dogs and 1 pill for large dogs, twice a day. Treatment should continue for more than 7 days, until the symptoms resolve, which typically takes around 20 days.